The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has launched the bid process to host the next two editions of VISTA, the world’s leading Para sports science conference, in 2019 and 2021.

First held in 1993 in Canada, VISTA brings together the world’s leading minds in the Paralympic Movement and wider sport to exchange information, research and expertise related to Paralympic sport. By bringing together sport scholars, sports medicine practitioners, classifiers and officials, coaches, athletes and sports administrators biennially, the aim is to enhance and promote cross-disciplinary professional interaction.

The last VISTA conference was held in Girona, Spain, in October 2015. It attracted 260 experts and the theme was “Securing the future for young Para athletes.” In September 2017 the next edition of VISTA will be held in Toronto, Canada, following the theme “Opportunities and challenges in Paralympic sport science and medicine support.” Around 300 people are expected to attend.

Dr. Peter Van de Vliet, the IPC’s Medical and Scientific Director, said: “Since the first VISTA in 1993, the conference has developed a global reputation for bringing together some of the world’s most highly regarded sports scientists and experts in the field of sport for athletes with an impairment.

“Each edition of the conference grows in size and scale and we are particularly excited about the 2019 and 2021 editions as they will take place either side of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

“As interest in Paralympic sport and the Paralympics Games continues to grow, so does the level of expertise within the Paralympic Movement. This is why VISTA plays such an important role as it is the only global event to bring together all the great minds within the Paralympic Movement to share findings and discuss ideas.”

Cities interested in bidding for VISTA may apply for either one or both editions and must be supported by their relevant National Paralympic Committee.

The deadline for applications is 31 January 2017.

To download the VISTA 2019 and 2021 bid document, please visit paralympic.org/events/open-bids.